The U.N. warns that South Sudan is on the verge of renewed civil war due to recent tensions and delays in the peace process. Despite the 2018 peace agreement, divisions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar are escalating, with recent violence reported among military factions. The U.N. emphasizes the need for diplomatic engagement and dialogue to avert a return to conflict.
The United Nations has issued a dire warning regarding the situation in South Sudan, indicating that the nation is on the brink of renewed civil war. Nicolas Haysom, the U.N. envoy, expressed disappointment over the government’s abrupt postponement of the latest peace efforts, emphasizing the necessity for President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar to prioritize the welfare of their citizens over their own interests.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with internal strife, descending into civil war by December 2013 due to ethnic tensions. The conflict resulted in significant loss of life, with over 40,000 fatalities, and was temporarily resolved by a 2018 peace agreement that established a government of national unity. However, elections planned for February 2023 have been postponed, delaying them until December 2024 and subsequently to 2026.
Recent conflicts have escalated, particularly in northern regions where government forces are clashing with the rebel group known as the White Army, believed to have ties to Machar. A recent incident involved a United Nations helicopter coming under fire while evacuating government troops from Nasir, exacerbating violence as government troops surrounded Machar’s residence in Juba.
Haysom explained that the growing political competition as elections approach is increasing tensions, revealing an evident lack of trust between Kiir and Machar necessary for adhering to the 2018 peace agreement. He cautioned against the ramifications of rampant misinformation and hate speech, which further deepen ethnic divisions.
The U.N. envoy stressed the serious implications of returning to civil war, drawing attention to the specter of humanitarian crises akin to those seen in previous conflicts. In light of these developments, Haysom has called for urgent shuttle diplomacy by the U.N. peacekeeping mission in collaboration with international and regional partners, including the African Union, advocating for dialogue as the means to resolve disputes and prevent military confrontations.
In conclusion, the warning from U.N. envoy Nicolas Haysom underscores the precarious state of South Sudan, beset by political strife and ethnic divisions. Efforts to stabilize the nation hinge on the cooperation of its leaders, President Kiir and Vice President Machar, to uphold peace agreements and prioritize their citizens’ welfare. Without decisive action through dialogue and diplomacy, South Sudan risks descending into further conflict, repeating the tragedies of its past.
Original Source: apnews.com
